Rocketdyne wins propulsion contract for NOAA's GeoXO satellites

(SpaceEnergy) US space technology company Rocketdyne has secured a contract from Lockheed Martin to supply spacecraft propulsion systems for NOAA's next-generation GeoXO weather satellites, it announced on 29 October.

Rocketdyne will provide 28 thrusters for each Geostationary Extended Observations (GeoXO) spacecraft, combining monopropellant thrusters and electric propulsion systems.

The equipment will enable operators to control and manoeuvre the satellites in geostationary orbit.

The contract establishes Rocketdyne's role as propulsion supplier to Lockheed Martin, which NASA selected in June 2024 to develop the spacecraft for the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

NOAA's current programme comprises two operational satellites and two replacement spacecraft. The first launch is planned for 2032.

The satellites will provide meteorological and environmental observations, including measurements used to improve severe-weather forecasting.

Rocketdyne said it has delivered more than 22,000 thrusters across weather, exploration and other satellite programmes.

The company did not disclose the contract value, delivery schedule or number of spacecraft covered by the new agreement.